This is a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Wayne Leadbetter of the Ruben Institute
for Joint Preservation in Baltimore, Maryland.
In August of 2004 I had a total knee replacement performed at a very well
known hospital in Philadelphia, PA. Within hours of the initial surgery I began
to have major complications requiring multiple additional surgeries prior to
being released to a rehabilitation facility. The complications , the surgeries,
and hospitalizations continued for an additional 5 months until I went to a
local community hospital where I was fortunately assigned to a wonderful
infectious disease specialist. Numerous tests were performed indicating a
positive infection to the knee replacement. At this time I tried to have my case
transferred to another surgeon but was declined due to the multiple
complications.. I was again transferred back to the original hospital and
surgical group who in essence stated they did not have faith in the tests
performed at the prior hospital. I again underwent additional surgery and was
told there was nothing wrong with the knee replacement and I had to give it
time. At this point I was being advised to seek additional medical care outside
of my hometown area.
I had been given the name of Dr. Leadbetter at Mount Sinai, contacted his
office and was provided an appointment. My family transported me from NJ to
Baltimore where I had a consult with Dr. Leadbetter. After reviewing surgical
reports, Xrays , MRI's and test results , Dr. Leadbetter informed me that he was
willing to try to improve my range of motion and assumed that the knee was still
infected. I was scheduled for surgery in May 2005 at which time the original
knee was removed. I required IV antibiotics for a number of months, required a
second surgery by Dr. Leadbetter a few months later to replace the spacer. I am
happy to report that 14 months later even though I require a brace to the
affected leg and assistive devices to ambulate I am improving each day.
From my initial consult Dr. Leadbetter has been totally honest with me . He
made no promises in salvaging my leg, only that he would try to do his best . He
has exceeded all my expectations. I know that I may be prone to further
infections and require additional follow up appointments but I am the best I
have been since August of 2004. My heartfelt thanks to you, Dr. Leadbetter,
without you I may have lost my leg.
Doris Booth
Mt. Laurel, NJ
Dear Dr. Leadbetter,
Thank you
for your kind and thoughtful review of my knee and ankle problems.
D.K.
